Gustave Flaubert

Definition

Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist best known for his meticulous style and influential works that epitomize the literary movements of realism and naturalism. His most famous novel, 'Madame Bovary,' explores themes of desire, dissatisfaction, and the constraints of society, showcasing the everyday struggles of its characters. Flaubert's commitment to portraying life as it is, without romantic embellishments, firmly establishes him as a central figure in defining the essence of realism and naturalism in literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flaubert's writing process was famously laborious; he believed in the principle of 'le mot juste,' meaning 'the right word,' which led him to revise his work extensively.
2. His critique of bourgeois society in 'Madame Bovary' sparked controversies upon its release in 1857, highlighting themes of adultery and moral hypocrisy.
3. Flaubert's influence extended beyond literature; he inspired later writers, including Marcel Proust and Henry James, who admired his narrative techniques and character depth.
4. He was part of a literary group called the 'Realists,' which included authors like Émile Zola, who further developed the principles laid out by Flaubert in their own works.
5. Flaubert's exploration of human psychology and social constraints has made 'Madame Bovary' a vital reference point in discussions about women's roles in literature and society.

Review Questions

• How does Gustave Flaubert's writing exemplify the principles of realism and naturalism?
  • Gustave Flaubert's writing embodies realism through his detailed portrayal of everyday life and ordinary characters, particularly seen in 'Madame Bovary.' He rejects romanticized narratives, opting instead to depict the struggles and disappointments faced by individuals within their social contexts. His attention to detail and use of precise language reflect the naturalist approach, as he explores how environment and heredity influence human behavior, ultimately presenting a stark view of reality.
• In what ways did Flaubert's 'Madame Bovary' challenge societal norms during its time?
  • 'Madame Bovary' challenged societal norms by addressing topics such as female desire, infidelity, and dissatisfaction with domestic life. At a time when women's roles were largely confined to marriage and motherhood, Flaubert depicted Emma Bovary's quest for passion and fulfillment outside these constraints. This portrayal not only raised eyebrows but also sparked legal action against Flaubert for obscenity, reflecting how literature can confront prevailing moral standards.
• Evaluate Flaubert's impact on future literary movements and discuss how his techniques influenced modern storytelling.
  • Gustave Flaubert's impact on future literary movements is profound; his emphasis on meticulous style and psychological depth paved the way for modern narrative techniques. His focus on character development and exploration of social themes influenced writers such as Marcel Proust and Virginia Woolf, who adopted similar methods to delve into human consciousness. By rejecting traditional plot structures in favor of deeper emotional truths, Flaubert's work laid the groundwork for 20th-century literature, emphasizing the importance of individual experience within broader societal contexts.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society accurately, focusing on ordinary characters and realistic settings.

Naturalism: An offshoot of realism that emphasizes a more scientific and detached view of life, often highlighting the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior.

Madame Bovary: 'Madame Bovary' is Flaubert's landmark novel that tells the story of Emma Bovary, a woman who seeks to escape her mundane provincial life through romantic fantasies and ultimately faces tragic consequences.